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2012 Lexus IS Preview

The facelifted Lexus IS range, which includes both the sedan and folding hard-top convertible, was only introduced last year, so for 2012 the updates have been kept to a minimum.

Once again the car is available with two engine options, a standard 2.5-liter V-6 in the IS 250 rated at 204 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, and an available 3.5-liter V-6 in the IS 350 rated at 306 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.

Customers can also choose from either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, though an available F Sport Package is only available with the former. Both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are also offered.

The F Sport Package takes inspiration from the high-performance IS F, combining special suspension and steering tuning and 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark finish (19-inch wheels are also available). There’s also a front lip spoiler, rear deck spoiler and dark-chrome front grille insert.

The quickest model here is the IS 350, which can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds.

As mentioned, the IS range was updated only last year, so for 2012 the changes are limited to a revised color palette as Nebula Gray Pearl replaces Smoky Granite Mica and Fire Agate Pearl replaces Glacier Frost Mica.

Luxury goodies include a 13-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, iPod and USB connectivity, and bi-xenon headlights. An even better 14-speaker Mark Levinson sound system is also available, as is a touchscreen navigation system and Lexus Enform telematics and connectivity feature.